PC-DMIS

PC-DMIS. It is a leading computer-aided measurement software platform used for programming coordinate measuring machines and other metrology equipment. Developed by Hexagon AB, it serves as a critical tool for dimensional inspection and quality control across manufacturing industries. The software translates geometric designs into executable measurement routines to verify part conformity to specifications.

Overview

The platform provides a unified environment for offline programming and execution on a wide array of measurement hardware, including coordinate measuring machines, vision systems, and laser trackers. It is integral to digital manufacturing workflows, bridging the gap between computer-aided design models and physical part verification. Its widespread adoption is evident in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and medical device manufacturing, where precision is paramount. The software's development is closely tied to the evolution of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing standards and modern industrial metrology.

Core Functionality

Primary operations include automated alignment of parts to CAD coordinate systems, feature construction, and dimensional analysis against nominal data. The software performs complex geometric evaluations, such as calculating the flatness of a surface or the concentricity of two cylinders. It generates detailed inspection reports with graphical depictions of deviations, which are essential for statistical process control. Advanced modules enable scanning with contact probes and non-contact sensors, capturing dense point clouds for comprehensive surface analysis.

Software Architecture

Built as a Microsoft Windows application, it utilizes a modular architecture allowing integration with various sensor technologies and machine controllers. The core engine interprets ISO 10303 STEP files and native formats from systems like CATIA, SOLIDWORKS, and NX. Its open application programming interface supports customization and automation, often interfacing with manufacturing execution systems. The underlying mathematical libraries perform robust fitting algorithms for data captured from devices like the Leitz Quindos or Romer arms.

Applications in Industry

Within the automotive industry, it is used to inspect engine blocks, transmission components, and body-in-white assemblies to ensure compliance with stringent tolerances. Aerospace manufacturers rely on it for verifying critical airframe structures, turbine blades, and landing gear from suppliers like Boeing or Airbus. The energy sector applies it to measure large components for wind turbines and oil platforms. It is also fundamental in electronics for inspecting printed circuit boards and in consumer goods for product consistency.

History and Development

Originally created by Brown & Sharpe in the late 1980s for their MicroVal and Validator CMMs, the software became an industry standard. Following the acquisition of Brown & Sharpe's metrology division by Hexagon AB in 2001, development accelerated under the Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence division. Major milestones included the introduction of CAD integration in the 1990s, the PC-DMIS PRO platform for multi-sensor systems, and the cloud-connected PC-DMIS 2024. Its evolution parallels advancements in computational geometry and the increasing adoption of Industry 4.0 principles.

File Formats and Interoperability

The software primarily uses its native .PRG and .OUT formats for storing measurement programs and results data. For data exchange, it supports international standards like ISO 10303 STEP AP242 and ISO 14649 for manufacturing data. Bidirectional communication with computer-aided manufacturing systems is achieved through formats like IGES and DXF. Report outputs can be generated in PDF, HTML, and XML formats, facilitating integration with enterprise quality systems such as SAP or Q-DAS.